UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Career
Development
Centre
Te Pokapū Umanga

CV and Cover
Letter Guide
 CV INFORMATION 1

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO
Career
Development
Centre
Te Pokapū Umanga

CV and Cover
Letter Guide
2 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

CONTENTS PAGE

GETTING STARTED
CV process flow diagram page 3
What needs to be in my CV – essential page 3
My CV – optional page 4
Referees page 4

WRITING YOUR CV
Employer expectations: what they want and how to deliver page 5
Employer expectations: what skills are valued in a CV page 6
Ideas for responding to skills criteria page 7
Presenting your evidence page 9
List of action words to use page 10
Presenting your relevant experience page 12
Personal statement/career objective/personal profile on your CV page 12
Optimise your CV for application tracking systems page 13
LinkedIn CV/resume builder page 14
Academic CVs page 14
CV self-review checklist page 15

CV & COVER LETTER

Writing your Cover Letter page 16
Cover letter suggested layout page 18
Using Social Media in the recruitment process page 19
Electronic/Online applications page 20
Cover letter checklist page 21
Emailing applications page 22
Application statements page 22

Check out OtagoCareerHub for further resources, making appointments with Career Advisers,
and booking into workshops, job database etc. http://otagocareerhub.ac.nz/careers
 CV INFORMATION 3

CV PROCESS FLOW DIAGRAM

Attend workshop – book on OtagoCareerHub
GET TO GRIPS Read this CV guide
with the basics

Research the company/organisation

RESEARCH Thoroughly review job description (find this on employer’s website or
advertisement) and identify the key points the employer is looking for

List achievements (academic & other)

BRAINSTORM Experience (paid and unpaid) & skills gained
Personal qualities
what you’ve got to offer Qualifications
Interests

Match your brainstorm with the employer requirements

Give evidence to back your skills profile – check employer
MATCH expectations in this guide (page 6)
Approach your referees

DRAFT Draft CV & Cover Letter

REVIEW Self-Review using checklist in this guide (page 13)

Get someone else to check your CV, spelling and layout

You can book a CV check through OtagoCareerHub
CHECK! See details on Events section in OtagoCareerHub for helpful
workshops

WHAT NEEDS TO BE IN MY CV – ESSENTIAL

NAME
CONTACT DETAILS
• Professional email address and phone number. Avoid unnecessary details such as date of birth (unless asked for)
• Address of other professional accounts, such as LinkedIn

QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION
• List most recent first with qualifications written in full e.g. Bachelor of Science
• Put emphasis on the qualification rather than the provider
• Highlight your dissertation or thesis (no more than a couple of lines)
• If requested, attach an academic transcript

EXPERIENCE/WORK EXPERIENCE/EMPLOYMENT/VOLUNTARY/PROJECT WORK HISTORY

• Include community or voluntary work as well as study and paid work for evidence
(or use a separate heading for these)
• List most recent first
• Indicate whether full or part-time, temporary or permanent positions
• Show position title, employer’s name, location, dates you were employed
• Include details of relevant skills used and achievements
• Think value-added outcomes
• Use action verbs and past tense

INTERESTS/ACTIVITIES
• Limit interests/activities to recent/current ones
• Provide some details so the reader can find out a bit more about you as a person
• Business or research interests

REFEREES
• See page 4

LENGTH OF CV
• For New Zealand and Australian graduate CVs – 2 pages is enough (employers don’t have time to read your life
story)
• Requirements for overseas employers CVs can vary. Research country specific practices online. See GoinGlobal
(access via OtagoCareerHub or Career Development Centre website).
4 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

CLEAN TIDY PRESENTATION

• Use standard fonts and black text
• All text is aligned
• Clear white space with the use of bullet points for easy scan-reading

MY CV – OPTIONAL
CAREER OBJECTIVE/PERSONAL SUMMARY/PERSONAL STATEMENT
• Useful if your degree appears to be different to the job or field for which you are applying
• Good when applying for a scholarship
• A concise overview of you as a professional - past/present/future
• What role you are looking for and why
• Should be at the beginning to focus the CV and capture attention
• Provides a ‘snapshot’ of you, before you follow with the skills sections to give evidence, see page 6-11

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
• Use quotes sparingly from written references to provide evidence of personal qualities
SCHOLARSHIPS/AWARDS
• Put on first page if they are relevant
• For organisations that prize academic excellence include your prizes, scholarships and awards
TRAINING/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Include short courses and skills development
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
• Include the professional memberships you subscribe to if these are required for the role e.g. Practising
Certificates for health professionals
PUBLICATIONS/CONFERENCES
• Essential for academic positions, see page 14
PHOTO
• Not usually recommended, however, some employers request a photo
• If you include one, make sure it shows you as a professional
• Can remind the person who you are if you’ve met previously e.g. at employer presentations

hot tip
“Qualifications and academic results are important, but employers are also interested in other aspects of your
experience and character. For example, at Kensington Swan, we look favourably on team work, community
involvement, work experience and responsibilities, and extracurricular achievements.”
HR Advisor, Kensington Swan

REFEREES
One of your referees needs to be someone who can comment on what you have done most recently. So, if you
are still at university, or have recently graduated, it is usual to name one of your professors, Head of Department,
lecturers, demonstrators or tutors as a referee.

The other referee should be someone who knows you well, ideally in a work capacity; an alternative is someone
who has known you for a long time. It is important to choose someone who will speak positively about you.

Employers usually follow up referees to back up the opinion they have formed from your cover letter, application
form, CV and job interview. Referees can also corroborate details supplied by the applicant.

Remember to ask permission of your referees before including their names in your CV. Then keep them well
informed about you, your career aspirations, applications and activities. It is equally okay to state ‘referees
available upon request’.

When listing your referees, you must provide their name, title, the name of the organisation where you both
worked, email address, and phone numbers (preferably both direct dial and mobile).
 CV INFORMATION 5

hot tips
Avoid using “ability to” statements – instead show you have done it. By using action words (in the past
tense to show you have “done” it) to convey your examples (see our list provided page 10). Having the
theory is great but employers are interested in how you have applied the learning

Most employers prefer bullets and snappy action statements

EMPLOYER EXPECTATIONS: WHAT THEY WANT AND HOW TO DELIVER

Organisations recruiting at Otago have given feedback to the Career Development Centre.
They say:
know us Research the company by attending their presentations, checking out their website, reading their company
profiles and reports, talking to people working in the company, and reading thoroughly the graduate recruitment
info provided by the job description.
tailor your CV One size does not fit all. Make your CV specific to the job you are applying for. Many employers comment that the
CVs they receive are not relevant to their company. Watch the cut and paste - some employers commented on
reading a letter obviously written for another company whose name appeared throughout! Easy to do when you
are in a hurry, but just as easy to put in the bin!
follow Do what they ask you to do. If they ask for a photo, supply one (but one which shows you as a professional, not as
instructions a party animal). If there is an application form provided which asks you to repeat what you have already included
in your CV, answer the question – don’t write “See CV”. If you can’t supply the information, say why.
express yourself Check grammar, punctuation and spelling. Mistakes create a bad impression and will likely have your CV go no
accurately further. Many employers tell us while they don’t want long CVs, too brief is just as bad. It must give a picture of
you and your skills, not provide the reader with a “find the missing skills” puzzle.

easy to read Presentation is important and employers expect a professional document. Use a clean, easy-to-read font, no
smaller than 11 point. Most prefer the straightforward approach with good use of headings, subheadings and
bullet points. However, creative jobs may demand a CV that demonstrates what you can do.
check your Google yourself. What will the employer learn about you from your on-line presence? Edit your accounts if
image needed. Use a professional looking email address. If you haven’t got a LinkedIn profile, now is a good time to
create one.
write to a It can take time to find out to whom to address the letter, but it’s worthwhile. It shows you are prepared to go that
person bit further in what you do. This is doubly important when the job involves building relationships with clients.
tailor your In your cover letter, tell them how you match their requirements and the benefits you would bring to the
cover letter company. This is your chance to highlight your qualifications and other work experience that has provided the
skills and competencies for which the employer is looking. Remember to read the job advertisement and job
description carefully. Your cover letter should be no more than one page.
why us In your cover letter, say why you want this particular job and why you want to work for this particular company.
Show you have done your research (but don’t just copy and paste from their website).
be enthusiastic Academic study is objective and analytical. You can get so used to writing for academic requirements, you can
forget how to enthuse - human beings respond to some warmth. The reader of your cover letter and CV is trying
to get a picture of what kind of a person you are, your motivation and your story.
email friendly Send your CV by email in a common file type such as docx. See Electronic/Online applications, page 20.
sign it We are so used to word processing documents, it’s easy to overlook the signature. Again, this is not a good look if
you want to be an accountant or lawyer! If emailing your letter, use a different type font (maybe in colour) for the
signature.
6 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

hot tip
Many students forget the CV is their first chance to show what they can do. If you want a job as a
communicator or marketer, then this is your chance! Don’t tell them you have an eye for detail while your CV
has a silly mistake. If you want an IT or a design position, think about how you can utilise the very skills you
want an employer to pay you for!

EMPLOYER EXPECTATIONS: WHAT SKILLS ARE VALUED IN A CV

Top 10 Skills/Attributes Sought After in University Graduates

Rank The ten most valuable skills in 20201 The ten most valuable skills in 20182

1 Complex Problem-solving Problem-solving

2 Critical Thinking Teamwork
3 Creativity Communication
4 People Management Adaptability
5 Coordinating with others Data Analysis
6 Emotional Intelligence Resilience
7 Judgement and Decision-making Organisation
8 Service Orientation Technical skills
9 Negotiation skills Creativity
10 Cognitive flexibility Leadership

1. 2019 The World Economic Forum reports that you need the ten skills listed to thrive in 2020
2. 2019 NZHerald The QS Global Employer Survey 2018

hot tips
“As we have seen in recent times, it is getting more competitive for students to secure jobs. Therefore it is more
important than ever that your CV really captures your skills and experience and helps you to stand out from
the crowd. With employers like KPMG you are competing with hundreds of students from all over the country
so a badly written or poorly presented CV would certainly prevent you from being short-listed. My advice? Use
all the careers services resources available to help you get it right.”
Senior HR Manager, People, Performance & Culture, KPMG

“I find that students quite often use university jargon in their CVs. This makes perfect sense to you, but often
the employer doesn’t understand what you are referring to.” Human Resources, Mainfreight Ltd

“We look for a cover letter that gives a brief overview of skills and why you want this position and/or to work
for this company. We are looking for a clearly set out CV. Most importantly, remember to run a spell check and
check the company name is spelt correctly.”
HR/Administration Manager, ADInstruments Ltd
 CV INFORMATION 7

IDEAS FOR RESPONDING TO SKILLS CRITERIA

1. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
Interpersonal, social or soft skills determine the style of interaction you have with others as well as how you
typically behave within given situations. Employers like to know that you are able to effectively interact and
build relationships and networks by sharing information and ideas, demonstrating empathy, negotiating with or
influencing others appropriately.

Relationships with peers, co-workers; supervisors, managers; clients; patients or customers; and how you have
evidence
handled difficult customers or working relationships successfully

2. VERBAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Communication includes listening, engaging in dialogue, giving feedback, cooperating as a team member, solving
problems, contributing in meetings and resolving conflict by communicating effectively with others.

Effective presentations to groups; interactions with customers; explaining complex ideas in a simple way; awards
evidence
in public speaking; debating experience; student radio

3. WRITTEN COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Employers value clear writing, good grammar and correct spelling. It is especially desirable in jobs which demand
an eye for detail.

Report writing; well-constructed essays; ability to write a good business letter; presenting and communicating
evidence scientific results; publications; club newsletters; articles for student newspapers; conference posters; research
grant applications

4. FLEXIBLE & ADAPTABLE – “CAN DO” ATTITUDE

Employers want people who are prepared to ‘give it a go’, who are willing to go the extra mile and are not confined
by ‘it’s not in my job description’ attitude.

Times when you’ve learnt new systems; studying or working overseas particularly in very different cultures;
evidence summer jobs which required a range of skills; shift work; taking on extra responsibility; range of subjects taken
(double degree can illustrate this); overcoming a personal obstacle you are prepared to mention; solutions you
have come up with to problems presented in a work setting or as part of your studies

5. SOUND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Many employers ask for your academic transcript. While they are interested in your performance, they are also
often looking for qualities that show a well-rounded person. So, don’t despair if you are not a straight A student.

Grade average; consistent performance across subjects and years; recovering from a poor year; coherent choice
evidence of papers; dissertation or thesis; conference papers and posters; publications; highlight a project you or the team
received a good mark for; tutoring experience; awards, scholarships and academic prizes

6. SELF-MOTIVATED, SELF-MANAGEMENT
Employers are often impressed by students who work as well as study. This means you understand the world of
work and can balance university deadlines with work responsibilities.

List your work experience and highlight skills relevant to the position you are applying for; provide an example of
promotion (i.e. responsibility for organising others, or teaching newcomers in your casual job); sole responsibility
evidence positions (i.e. being left in charge of the store in weekends); managing finances to support yourself while at
university

7. TEAM PLAYER / TEAM WORK

Ability to be a co-operative, supportive, reliable and a committed team member.

Group projects with successful outcomes; customer service teams; sports; leisure activities; use words like
evidence “committed” “cooperative”; times when you took initiative to get the team back on track; voluntary work; holiday
jobs

8. ENERGY & ENTHUSIASM

You can have an academic record to die for, but if you sound boring in your letter and your CV shows very few
outside activities, employers may think you lack people skills and would not fit well into their team.

Convey enthusiasm for the company and the role by using positive language in your cover letter; evidence
evidence might include your contribution to increasing sales; customers seeking you out specifically; public speaking;
extracurricular activities; peer support; residential assistant experience; club and sport activities
 8 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

9. PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS

Thinking differently to produce new solutions.

Lateral thinking i.e. looking at a problem from differing perspectives; conflict resolution in group work; case
study recommendations; initiatives adopted by employer in holiday jobs; successful application of evidence
evidence experimental method; experimental design; testing and proving hypotheses; systems design or redesign;
improvements to existing methods or structures

10. ANALYTICAL, CONCEPTUAL AND RESEARCH SKILLS

Understanding, analysing, reasoning, interpreting and presenting information and/or data, and the ability to think
critically.

Provide the range of research methodologies you have used; include projects, case-studies; mention the
evidence dissertation or thesis you are writing; recommendations you have made as part of course work; interpreting
figures, charts, graphs, tables; critical thinking, manipulation of data and results; reporting and writing up of
experiments; literature searches and reviews

11. PROFESSIONAL ETHICS

A situation where the opportunity to be unethical exists but sticking to professional standards which you
considered ethical.

Times when you were responsible for handling cash or cashing up; responsible tenant, trained staff, confidentiality
evidence with personal or sensitive information, resisted pressure or temptation, treasurer or other committee member,
involvement with Ethical Behaviour Committee or standing up for others in difficult situations, residential
assistance activities or involvement as a class representative

12. CREATIVE / INNOVATIVE

New ways of looking at things and coming up with new ideas, theories, concepts, methods and designs.

Design and innovation of new products or processes for a project or as part of your course work; creative
evidence visualising; conflict resolution in interpersonal activities; products designed; solutions to problems; case study
recommendations; prizes or acknowledgement for bright ideas

13. TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

This is the depth or leverage you bring from your degree and/or experience directly related to the job
requirements. This may be IT, dentistry, marketing, accounting, genetics, chemistry, languages etc. If you’re an IT/
Computer major this section should be visible on the front page, and for once you are encouraged to use jargon –
to show exactly what you can do.

If your degree does not have a vocational focus, your technical expertise will be critical thinking, data manipulation
techniques, reliable field work and data recording, writing skills, database/software skills. Provide examples of the
evidence
specifics of what you have done in your course work; methodologies, tools and techniques used, software and
equipment involved; practical projects especially if done for a real business

14. LEADERSHIP / INITIATIVE

Employers are looking for people who have foresight and can be proactive. Work is frequently carried out in
autonomous, self-directed teams so employers need people who don’t require constant supervision.

Team leadership including sports; being chosen to represent a group; promotion in holiday jobs; delivering to
evidence targets; goal setting; possibly include a career objective which shows you are heading towards responsibility;
include the results or outcomes of what you have achieved.

15. ORGANISING / PLANNING

Employers are expecting more from fewer staff and limited resources. Being able to organise and prioritise your
time is essential. Today’s workplace requires managing multiple projects at any given time.

Any projects you have taken from beginning to successful conclusion; membership of club committees; events
evidence organised; time management of study work and outside activities
 CV INFORMATION 9

16. COMPUTER LITERACY

Most employers expect that you have basic workplace computer literacy. If the job description indicates any
specific computer skills needed for the role, include evidence of this in your work experience

Highlight software and programmes you have used during your studies, in holiday jobs or placements; list
programmes you have used (Word, Excel) and any specialist software e.g. Toniq, Xero; include internet research;
evidence building and manipulating databases; desktop publishing, scanning and layout work; web development and
maintenance

17. BUSINESS ACUMEN / COMMERCIAL AWARENESS

Often employers like to know you are not a novice when it comes to understanding customer service, competition,
and managing resources, and have experienced (or at least understand) the pressures of running a business.

Working to sales targets; cash handling experience; reading a balance sheet; starting up or running own small
business; applied project work; holiday jobs where you worked in an office; enterprise scheme at school;
evidence
participation in stock market; attending business or industry specific network meetings; including a referee who is
a business person; being raised in a family of entrepreneurs or small business; treasurer for clubs and societies

18. TREATY OF WAITANGI

Public sector, Iwi enterprises and educational organisations are very keen to find out what you know about
biculturalism and Treaty obligations.

Mention papers which have covered resource implications of the Treaty; Mäori language and culture papers
evidence studied; participation in bicultural awareness seminars or workshops; include whakapapa and/or iwi affiliations
when appropriate

PRESENTING YOUR EVIDENCE

The following is a useful way to present evidence of your skills (as bullet points under your work experience/the
relevant heading).

ESSENTIAL

1. Action Verb 2. Context 3. Skill(s) used 4. Outcome

or developed achieved and/or
learning

Example:
Led a team of five students to develop the online marketing strategy for a local start-up. This required strong
leadership and collaboration skills to manage the overview of the project and build an effective working
relationship with the client company. The new marketing strategy resulted in a 25% increase in sales.

hot tips
“Your CV needs to convince an employer that your skills, experience, and personal style are relevant to
the position you’re applying for.”
HR Advisor, Kensington Swan
10 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

LIST OF ACTION VERBS

Achievement Skills streamlined conceptualised Financial Skills resolved

systematised created restored
accomplished tabulated derived administered served
achieved transcribed developed allocated serviced
awarded typed discriminated analysed sympathised
commended updated generated appraised trained
established utilised improvised audited understood
expanded validated integrated balanced utilised
implemented memorised calculated volunteered
improved Communication perceived computed
increased Skills recognised costed Leadership Skills
initiated researched developed
overcame addressed synthesized doubled arbitrated
procured advertised theorised estimated chaired
produced answered updated evaluated confronted
raided arbitrated visualised forecast directed
received arranged managed guided
secured authored Creative Skills marketed initiated
set up communicated planned inspired
succeeded composed acted prepared led
conducted composed priced managed
Clerical or Detail contacted conceived programmed mediated
Skills corresponded conceptualised projected motivated
developed conducted purchased negotiated
approved directed created reduced organised
arranged discussed danced researched recruited
catalogued disseminated designed reviewed
checked drafted developed revised Learning Skills
classified edited devised
collated encouraged directed Helping Skills acquired
collected explained drafted appreciated
compiled expressed drew advised attained
corrected formulated edited appointed assessed
detailed influenced entertained assessed combined
dispatched interpreted established assisted commenced
distributed lectured expressed cared committed
documented mediated fashioned clarified discovered
enforced moderated filmed coached estimated
executed motivated founded contributed evaluated
expanded narrated illustrated conveyed expanded
filed negotiated imagined counselled experienced
generated persuaded initiated demonstrated exposed
implemented presented instituted diagnosed familiarised
inspected promoted integrated educated gained
located proposed introduced empathised graduated
managed published invented engaged grasped
monitored recommended learnt escorted learnt
operated recruited mapped expedited observed
ordered reported mastered facilitated obtained
organised solicited modelled familiarised perceived
placed spoke operated guided progressed
prepared supplied originated liaised recognised
processed translated performed listened scanned
purchased transmitted photographed mediated sized
reconciled wrote planned motivated
recorded presented nursed Management Skills
reduced Thinking & published participated
reported Cognitive Skills revitalised provided administered
retrieved sang raised analysed
revamped adapted styled referred appointed
screened applied taped rehabilitated approved
sorted balanced wrote related assigned
specialised conceived represented attained
 CV INFORMATION 11

authorised People Skills initiated learned organised

built modified observed persuaded
chaired appointed proposed organised planned
commissioned assessed pursued prepared prepared
consolidated assigned rectified recognised set goals
contracted built refrained re-evaluated stimulated
controlled conducted repaired researched taught
coordinated counselled replaced resourced trained
dealt employed resolved reviewed tutored
delegated engaged restored revised utilised
designated enlisted reviewed studied
designed formed revised summarised Technical Skills
developed graded saved surveyed
directed guided streamlined systematised applied
employed liaised studied assembled
enforced managed subcontracted Teaching Skills built
evaluated mediated submitted calculated
executed motivated supplied adapted coded
fired negotiated administered computed
hired provided Research Skills advised constructed
improved recruited briefed designed
increased related analysed clarified devised
initiated selected assessed coached engineered
issued screened clarified communicated fabricated
maintained stimulated classified coordinated installed
managed collated counselled machined
ordered Problem-solving collected designed made
organised Skills compiled developed maintained
oversaw critiqued empowered manufactured
planned advised diagnosed enabled modified
prioritised applied dissected encouraged operated
produced arranged enquired evaluated overhauled
programmed changed evaluated explained programmed
projected converted examined facilitated rebuilt
recommended determined extracted guided remodelled
reviewed eliminated hypothesized helped repaired
scheduled furnished identified informed replaced
selected grasped inspected initiated solved
strengthened handled interpreted instructed tested
supervised identified interviewed lectured trained
implemented investigated listened upgraded
wired

hot tip
“Take a moment to think about all the skills you have acquired and experiences you have had and how
these might link to the opportunity you are wanting. They don’t necessarily have to be in the same
realm in order to show you have skills and experience that would make you an asset. For example, if
you were to apply at Chapman Tripp, having worked in a café/supermarket/dairy etc. means you would
have needed to hone your skills around customer service and building rapport; two exceptionally useful
and important skills required to work with internal and external clients. In a nutshell, think broadly on
all the things you’ve done and qualities you have that make you you and how they could make you a
great fit for that workplace/role.”
Graduate Talent Acquisition Specialist, Chapman Tripp
12 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

PRESENTING YOUR RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

If you have experiences that are relevant to your field, you can choose to ‘package’ these together in a section on
the front page of your CV, separating them out from your overall experience. This can increase the impact of your
CV by immediately showing the employer you already have experience in the field and are a potentially strong
candidate. (Remember that on average, employers only spend a few seconds deciding whether it is worth reading
your CV, so make it easy for them).
For this section, choose a relevant and/or industry-based heading (e.g. Marketing Experience, or Food Industry
Experience, etc.) This section could include:
• Part-time or holiday work
• Internship experience
• Volunteer or community experience
• Your own part-time business venture
• Any relevant project or research work from your studies
• Any specific technical skills or qualifications
This is not always possible, but if you already have a range of experiences and skills in your field, then it is an
effective way of quickly and clearly showcasing this. For example, if you are studying Food Science, then you could
choose to have a heading ‘Food Industry Experience’ on the front page of your CV that brings together any of the
above that is relevant to this sector.
If you arrange your CV like this, then you would follow this section with an ‘Other Work Experience’ where you
present those other things you have done that are not specifically relevant to your field but are still good evidence
of your work ethic and transferable/people skills.
“Equally a CV does no

PERSONAL STATEMENT/CAREER OBJECTIVE/PROFESSIONAL PROFILE ON YOUR CV

The first thing to know is that a personal statement (or whatever you choose to call it) is optional. Often the
template you have selected will start with a statement of some kind – this does not mean that you HAVE to have
one on your CV. You could remove it altogether and get more of your qualifications and relevant work experience/
skills onto the front page.

If you are required to submit a separate personal statement (essay) or respond to a number of questions in the
online application process, then you may also find that a statement on your CV is unnecessary.

Many people find these statements hard to write. They often end up repeating information or wording from their
cover letter or CV, or write a statement full of generic wording e.g. ‘I am a highly motivated, hardworking graduate
with a strong desire to help people’. This adds nothing to your application and can downgrade the impact of your
application in the eyes of employers and recruiters. Ask yourself; could your friend or classmate write the same
words on their CV? If the answer is ‘yes’, then your statement is not individual enough.

One approach to help you decide whether to use a statement is to write your CV and cover letter first. Then
see if there is anything else you wish to include in your application that could be communicated through an
effective statement. If you do decide you need a statement, then think about what you want to call it. Is it actually
a personal statement? Or might it be more professional to call it something else e.g. career statement or profile?
Remembering that the top of the front page of your CV is where you hold the reader’s attention most. Have you
made good use of this precious space with a strong, effective, individual statement?

Some situations where a statement can be of real advantage to you:

• Where you are submitting your CV without a cover letter (e.g. following up on a conversation). In this case,
your statement should cover the key aspects of a cover letter – why you want the position and your strengths/
points of difference for the role.
• Where you need to explain a change of career direction, gap in study, unusual path or circumstances
• Where you can use the space to clearly state your points of difference

Your statement should be unique, to the point and effective. Make it clear who you are, what you are looking
for, your specific goals and/or your ambitions for the future. Tailor your statement to the employer and what
they are looking for, and always include data/evidence to back up your claims.
 CV INFORMATION 13

hot tips
Remember that your statement is about you in the context of this specific application – your greatest strength may be
your saxophone playing, but it’s unlikely to be relevant here. Only include relevant material.

Get someone to read it over to see how it flows and/or if you have addressed the key points. You could make an
appointment with a Career Adviser at the Career Development Centre to do this.

Less is more. Reviewers have to read lots of these things; the concise and succinct ones will make an impression, but the
rambling and incoherent ones will too!

Does it convey a sense of you? The exercise is trying to get a sense of you as an individual and your motivation for the
field/organisation/position. Tell them, honestly, why you want it, what your driving force is.

OPTIMISE YOUR CV FOR APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEMS

WHAT IS AN APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEM?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a software application that is primarily used to help hiring companies collect
and organise large numbers of applicants. Instead of reviewing each and every application, the recruiter can
focus squarely on candidates the ATS has identified as a strong match. The applicant pool is narrowed down by
searching for key words such as job titles, or qualifications, required skills, as well as other information like former
employers, experience, universities, and qualifications.
WHY DO APPLICANT TRACKING SYSTEMS MATTER?
Job seekers interact with an ATS just about any time they apply for a role through an online form. The best way to
ensure you have the right search terms and a high match rate is to study the job description. Also search all the
organisation’s publications and communications with the outside world and pick out the language the company
uses. Repeat back in your CV the organisation’s own terminology.
Other Tips:
• Use text – it can be tempting to jazz up your CV with graphics, but the ATS won’t see these. The same applies
for tables, they often cause problems
• It’s best to use recognised sections such as Education, Qualifications, Experience, Interests, and
Referees rather than making up clever new ones
• Spell out acronyms. AFA may be the acronym you use in your industry. But the ATS may be programmed to
look for “Authorised Financial Adviser”. Likewise, include both Bachelor of Commerce and BCom, so that the
machine understands
• Don’t go overboard though and stuff your resume with keywords. Sprinkle these in lightly, keeping in mind
the human who eventually sees your CV
• Don’t Use images, pictures, symbols and shading, and try to stick to well-known fonts. Some older
systems prefer web-safe fonts such as Arial and Courier
• Save your file as a .docx if possible
Many recruiters still choose to glance at every job application that comes through their ATS. They take a quick
glance at the applicant’s past highlights, job titles and companies. They can make a determination about whether
they want to learn more in about 6 seconds. It’s important to make sure your top skills and qualifications are
quickly and easily identifiable.
14 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

LINKEDIN CV/RESUME BUILDER

There are currently two ways in which your LinkedIn profile assists development of your CV. (This is likely to
change as software and AI develops).
1. You can download the key information from your LinkedIn profile as a pdf and use this as a basis for your CV.
BEWARE that this is not sufficient on its own and needs to be developed and edited in light of everything you
read in this resource.
2. For Mircrosoft Office 365 users, the Resume Assistant in Word pulls in content suggestions from LinkedIn
public profiles, based on the job description and industry you are applying for. These descriptions provide
examples of how to include key words and provide evidence of your skills etc. in your CV.

ACADEMIC CVS

Academic CVs have a similar format and purpose as general CVs, with headings such as education (including your
thesis topic/supervisor), work experience, awards and achievements. You may wish to include further sections
outlining your technical skills, research activities/interests, teaching/tutoring/lecturing experience, publications,
conference presentations/attendance, university/community service, professional activities, positions of
responsibility, memberships, awards and research grants (including $ figures or convert to the country for which
you are applying). The order in which you present your information should reflect the content and requirements
of the job description to create a targeted CV that makes use of their key words.
An academic CV provides evidence of experiences that highlight your strengths/talent, your knowledge base and
your transferable skills. It should be free of errors and presented in an easily read format, in a style that is relevant
and recognised by those to whom you are applying. Always send a letter as an introduction – and consider your
audience. A professor might need more information than just one page.
TIPS FOR CRAFTING YOUR ACADEMIC CV:
• Research the university to which you are applying; use any suggested CV formats or templates and identify
your fit with the current department
• Carefully read the advertisement to get an idea of the specific competencies or requirements over and
above the usual academic qualifications. You may need to adapt your research to the particular audience or
department
• Seek feedback about the impression your CV gives a reader who does not particularly know you
• Make sure you check with your supervisor for any ideas or tips, feedback and suggestions for structuring your
academic CV. Some academic staff have on-line CVs or an E-portfolio and could provide ideas for developing a
style of CV that suits you, your discipline and your particular strengths
• Ensure when discussing your research that you identify the aims, outcomes and techniques or research
methodologies used
• Think about what has made you successful to date and ensure that you have identified or highlighted these in
your CV
• Some departments may require written statements, teaching philosophy, or specific responses to the
selection criteria
• If the academic CV is being requested to apply for further study or if it is the only document that is being
requested, consider an about me section to provide a future focus to the document
You may find useful career information on vitae.ac.uk.

NOW YOU HAVE YOUR DRAFT … TIME FOR SELF-REVIEW
CV CHECKLIST
Tailoring Have you thoroughly read
the job description and
responded to what the
employer is looking for?
Format Hold out the CV at arm’s
length. Is the structure
obvious?
Are there no grammar or
spelling errors?
Contact details Does your name stand
out, and is it included in
the footer of the other
pages?
Education (or Are your qualifications on
Qualifications) the front page?
Does the information
include institution and its
location, graduation year,
and major?
Experience Section Is experience provided
(This includes paid and well defined and does
unpaid work) it relate to the intended
career field?
Are descriptions clear
and formatted as bullets
beginning with action
verbs?
Unique categories: Are sections well
Awards, Projects, organised and easy to
Achievements. understand?
Interests Have you explained
something about the
activity rather than simply
used one word?
Referees Have given the referee’s
full name, job title, work
email address, and phone
number?
Is everything you have
listed relevant to the
target role (either directly
or indirectly)?
Is your CV well laid-out
with clearly labelled
sections?
Is the layout consistent
and font size 11 or 12?
Are your email and phone
number available, and
is your email address
professional?
Have you listed the most
recent first (and then
worked back)?
Have you included extra
information such as study
abroad, research projects
and thesis work?
Are places of work,
location, job titles, and
dates included for each
position?
Have you provided
evidence of ‘technical
expertise’ and experience
from degree or course
work?
Do headings chosen
relate to the intended
field?
Can the reader get a
picture of you as a well-
rounded person?
Have you also given the
organisation where you
both worked?
CV INFORMATION 15
When listing your skills
and experience, have
you placed those of most
interest to the employer
at the top?
Pages are filled evenly
and not overcrowded?
No more than 2 pages?
Have you made good use
of headings and bullet
points?
Is your customised
LinkedIn URL provided?
Is the emphasis on your
qualification not the
learning institution?
Have you given the full
title of your qualifications?
Is your experience listed
in reverse chronological
order?
Have you given
evidence of skills and
achievements?
Do activities listed
include skills gained and
leadership roles held?
Have you used this
section to demonstrate
examples of skills that the
employer is looking for?
Have you actually asked
the referees and given
them details of the
application?
16 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

WRITING YOUR COVER LETTER

Your cover letter is your opportunity to explain to your prospective employer why all the information in your CV
and background makes you the perfect choice for them. You need to take full advantage of this opportunity!
To write an effective cover letter, you need to know the answers to two different ‘why’s:
• Why they should pick you (i.e what you can do for them)
• Why you want this job/role, with this organisation
The only way to figure out the answers to these ‘why’s is to do some research. That’s your first step…

RESEARCH
To convince the employer that you’re just who they’re looking for, you need to figure out what it is they are
looking for in an applicant. It’s worth it – the results of your research will not only help you put together the
most effective CV and cover letter possible, but will also come in handy when you reach interview stage. There
are plenty of resources that could help you:
• The job advertisement should provide some brief information on the company.
• The job description should outline the company and its values as well as in-depth detail on the job itself.
• The company website could provide information on past successes, current projects and future directions;
provide staff profiles in a tone which can reveal how they see their employees; and present the company’s
strengths and values.
• Company brochures/promotional material can reveal what opportunities the company can offer, what
they’re proud of, and how they wish to be seen by their clients and staff.
• People you know who have had experience with the company can tell you a lot about its direction,
strengths, and values.
• Phoning the company and asking questions is a great way to do accurate research on the company, and
doubles as a way to get yourself on the radar. Plan before you pick up the phone – make a list of questions
you’d like to ask (and NOT things that are obvious in the advertisement or on the website), and check the
contact/s given on the job description or website to figure out who it is you should be talking to. Remember
that this is your first chance to make an impression so approach the conversation professionally.
• Online networks – does the company have a Facebook site or a LinkedIn page? Bingo! Tons of info at your
fingertips.

FIGURE OUT WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT THEM

Now you’ve done the research, you’re in a much better position to figure out what it is about them that
makes you want the job, and what would make you a good addition to their company. Think about how your
professional values align with theirs; opportunities they can offer that would help you further your career or
extend your expertise/knowledge; past, current or future projects that spark your interest; how they see their
employees and so on.
To figure all this out, you have three built-in filters through which all your research can pass (take lots of notes
as you go!).

FIRST, YOUR BELIEFS AND VALUES:

You might find that you have more in common with the company ideologically than you do in terms of specific
relevant experience. Consider your field or profession. Why are you doing it? Why do you believe it’s important?
What about your approach to clients or customer service? You may have done a lot of volunteer community
work and have strong beliefs about the importance of community – how does this fit with the approach of the
company you’re applying to? To use this filter, compare how you see yourself (professionally and personally)
with how they see themselves.

NEXT, YOUR EXPERIENCE:

Look back over your employment history, education, volunteer, cultural or travel, and life experience. Would
this company/position offer you the chance to use the skills and learning you have gained in any of these
areas of your life? Maybe it would give you a chance to expand your horizons, develop specific skills, or indulge
an interest usually confined to your leisure time? You need to use this filter twice – once to find out what
they can offer you in terms of providing opportunities you want, and once to figure out what you have in
your background that could help you excel in the role they are offering. The key is, if you’ve done something
well once, you can do it well again – and this includes learning. If you’ve done lots of stuff but nothing exactly
like what they would be asking you to do, but you can come up with plenty of times you’ve had to push your
boundaries to learn a new role, don’t forget that the ability to learn and adapt is a very valuable asset!
 CV INFORMATION 17

AND FINALLY, YOUR FUTURE:

Where is your motivation and drive taking you? How would this role fit in with that career objective?
Stay away from things you think they want to hear. They’ll spot dishonesty and false flattery a mile away, but are
likely to be convinced by a genuine explanation of aspects of the company that are particularly interesting and
motivating to you.

GET WRITING
A standard cover letter has four key components. You’ve done your research, you’ve filtered the info and taken
lots of notes, so now you’re ready to begin writing…

PARAGRAPH ONE:
This one’s easy. You need to state the position you’re applying for, and tell the employer how you found out
about the position (this will help them out by letting them know how they’re advertising or networking systems
are working). If someone within the company or field recommended that you apply; if you met a representative
of the company at a Careers Fair or seminar and they said something that made you want to apply; or you have
had an internship or some other previous experience with the company, this is also the perfect opportunity to
mention it.
Be professional, but enthusiastic!

PARAGRAPH TWO:
In this paragraph, focus on what you can offer them in the role you’re applying for. You should focus on the key
aspects of the job description – what the company is most seeking in someone who will be successful in this
position. Now respond to it by describing how the previous experience/skills/values or motivations you have
could make you awesome in the role and contribute to their company.
Use specific information to get their interest - and avoid bland generic statements.

PARAGRAPH THREE:
This one starts to use your research. You need to tell the prospective employer why you want to work for them.
You’ve already figured it out, back when you filtered your research. Look at your notes, and pick the genuine
reason that is most important to you. Explain your reason, then relate it to your history and skill to give it a
context that is personal to you.
It’s important to strike a balance of ‘you’ and ‘them’. Remember your audience – they need to know how they
would benefit from hiring you (and less about what they can do for you). Keep making connections between
yourself and them throughout these paragraphs to achieve this balance.

PARAGRAPH FOUR:
Another easy one – this is where you open a dialogue with your potential employer. First, note the documents
that you’ve attached in a brief sentence like this:
Please find my curriculum vitae and application form enclosed.
Don’t forget that you have something to offer them as much as they have something to offer you! Don’t put
yourself in a passive, inferior role by saying that you ‘hope they will consider your application’ or ‘hope to hear
from’ them. Instead, create equality by becoming an equal participant, but also acknowledge that they’re putting
in some effort here too … something more like this:
I appreciate your consideration, and look forward to discussing this opportunity with you further.
Short, simple, and effective.
18 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

SUGGESTED COVER LETTER LAYOUT

Line Spacing

Your name
Contact details
(Alternatively you can set your details up as a professional looking ‘banner’ across the top of the page)
2 spaces

9 May 2020
2 spaces

First name, Surname
Human Resources Officer
ABC Company
101 Sunset Drive
Auckland Postcode
2 spaces

Dear first name & surname (if you know Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss use this with the last name)
1 space
Job title and Reference Number
1 space
1) Details of the Job
State the job for which you are applying. Be enthusiastic for the company and the position. Indicate the
source and date of the job information. Provide details of contact you have had with the organisation. If
you have been referred by a friend or colleague of the employer give details.
1 space
2) What you have to offer the organisation
Highlight the extent to which you match the requirements of the job, e.g. qualifications, experience,
qualities, capabilities, transferable skills. Outline any further points in your favour related to the job. Be
enthusiastic.
1 space
3) Why you want to work in this position for this organisation
Outline your interest in the particular job and/or the position and the organisation. Make realistically
positive comments about the reputation and performance of the company. This is where your research
shows.
1 space
4) Conclusion
Keep it short, reiterate your enthusiasm and refer to your attached curriculum vitae and other
requested material.
2 spaces

Yours sincerely
5 spaces

(Signature here)

First name, Surname

 CV INFORMATION 19

FINAL CHECK
margins Make sure there’s at least 2cm of clean white space down each side of the page, and at the top and bottom. Don’t
let your letter get ‘crowded’

font Use one font only, and make it something sensible – Times New Roman, and other traditional fonts like
Garamond, Arial and Calibri should give you an exemplary standard for font sensibility. The font you use should be
the same as the one used for your CV.
colour Stick to black and white
borders Avoid putting a border around your letter. Think about this psychologically – a border will ‘enclose’ your letter, and
you want it to ‘flow’ on to your CV naturally so that they function as a unit. It also reduces the space available for
what you want to say.

now get out Proofread at least three times! Use spell check, but also check your spelling yourself. Don’t forget about ‘watt
your fine- yore spell cheque cant Czech’! Make sure all your sentences are complete and make sense, that your tone is
tooth comb appropriately formal, and that the company name, contact details, and facts are all correct.

check Check the name of your cover letter (and CV) document (a big mistake is to send it off with another employer
name in the document name). It’s a good idea to get someone else to check all this as well – they might pick up
something you missed!

hot tip
It is essential you write a fresh and tailored cover letter for each job

Highlight the jobs or experiences that best match what it is the employer is looking for

Avoid phrases that will draw attention to experience or skills you may lack, such as ‘although I don’t have’
or ‘while I have not’

USING SOCIAL MEDIA IN THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Building an effective professional network (both in person and online) can provide valuable information, advice
and opportunities.
Recruiters are increasingly using LinkedIn to search for talent, so your LinkedIn profile can be equally as important
as your CV and cover letter in your job search process. While your Linkedin profile should include all the key
information from your CV, it also provides you with an opportunity to add additional depth, with more information
about relevant experiences, projects you have been involved in, your skills, awards and achievements and so on.
Your LinkedIn Summary provides a key opportunity to explain and ‘sell’ yourself. You can also upload documents
here such as your CV, or any photos, websites, videos etc which provide further evidence to your skills.
Beware – research indicates the 60%-70% of employers use social media to screen prospective employees. This
includes searching your LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter presence so it is important your ‘brand’ is consistent
across all channels and your privacy settings are correct.

hot tip
Use LinkedIn to find and reach out to the hiring manager or employer. Ask to connect or send a
message and have some good questions to ask. This will help you stand out from the crowd and show
your real interest in the role. Putting in the extra effort helps to create a good impression.
 20 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

ELECTRONIC/ONLINE APPLICATIONS

The guide and best practice for writing Cover Letters and CVs applies equally to completing online applications. It
is worth considering the following points when dealing with electronic applications.

instructions Always read these very carefully and follow them!

time It is likely to take longer to complete than you think and you need time to navigate your way round the website.
Many people assume because it is an online form, it is going to be easy and won’t take long to fill in. Wrong! By
not allowing enough time, you may miss the deadline and find the application process is removed before you
complete.
keep a copy Many online applications ask you to register before you can access the form. Make a note of your registration
details (it is not a good to look to be talking about ‘eye for detail’ or ‘your good organisational skills’, and then have
to send an email because you’ve forgotten your password).
familiarise If you cannot look at the whole form (you may have to work through it) then note the questions as you come to
yourself them. Many online forms allow for the applicant to complete the application across several sessions.

query If you have a query or a problem with the form or website, or are unsure of some instruction, use the help contact
which will be on the webpage. It is perfectly acceptable to ring up as well.
check numbers Each answer usually has a word (or even a character) limit. This is a useful guide as to what the employer is looking
for. A short word limit for a complex answer is a test of your ability to write well. Equally if your answer is well
under the limit, then you have probably not provided sufficient depth of information/explanation. A good strategy
is to write your answers in a Word document and when you are happy with what you have written, cut and paste
your answers into the form. Keep a copy of your answers for your own reference.

answer Make sure you have addressed what is being asked of you in the question. You may feel the question is already
covered in your CV or Cover Letter. Resist any temptation to say, ‘Refer to my CV’ or ‘See my Cover Letter’, as
your answer. Many questions are often behaviour-based for example: “Tell us about a time when...” The Career
Development Centre’s Interview Skills guide provides strategies for answering these questions well.
Proof reading is as essential for online applications as it is for hard copy applications! Have another pair of eyes to
read your application for any mistakes or answers not answered properly. Avoid giving the reader an excuse for
consigning your application to the ‘No’ pile.

hot tip
“Equally a CV does not stand alone. You need a strong, compelling and personalised cover letter to go with
your CV adding motivation to the skills and knowledge your CV demonstrates.”

HR Manager, L’Oréal New Zealand Ltd.

 CV INFORMATION 21

COVER LETTER CHECKLIST

DIVISION OF STUDENT AND ACADEMIC SERVICES

Career Development Centre

Use this rubric to help you to check through your letter. Te Pokapū Umanga

Cover letter that is enthusiastic, Cover letter that is good
engaging and has a good flow. Top example, a few clichéd
marks and go to the head of the sentences and some
queue. evidence of skills but
something missing.
Cover letter needs significant
improvement as doesn’t really give
a good sense of the writer. Far too
generic.

Business This letter uses correct business This letter uses correct Business formatting is not used
format format with date and addresses at business format with date in this letter. The details are not
and overall the top, and has your name at the and addresses at the top, consistent with formal business
quality of bottom. and a signature at the letter formatting. The grammar and
writing ability This letter looks clear and concise, bottom. There could be spelling need further attention.
without spelling errors and is a better flow to content, The content of this letter is not
grammatically correct. It is not double- a story that engages and genuine and has too many clichéd
spaced and uses a font that is easy has minimal grammar sentences.
to read. and spelling errors.

Section 1: This section identifies the position This section identifies the This section does not clearly identify
Introduction for which you are applying, explains position you are applying what position you are seeking or the
why you are interested in applying for, and where you saw opening is vague and generic. There
for the job and has a genuine and the advertisement, but is no discussion about the actual
engaging opening that responds to does so in a generic and position or the company. This letter
questions or identified criteria in clichéd way. You describe does not encourage reading any
the job advertisement. The wording why you are interested more. Interest is lost.
is creative and catches the reader’s in this job but are not
attention quickly. specific. This section
is bland and does not
capture the reader’s
attention.
Section 2: This letter clearly provides evidence This letter is not closely This letter does not discuss any
Identification of the skills discussed in the job related to the position, relevant qualifications. There is no
of skills and advertisement and matches them instead it talks only about reference to a resume or other
experiences clearly with demonstrated experience. you, why you want the materials. You have not related
as related to You refer the reader to specific job job and what you will your skills to the position for which
position titles or employers using verbs and get if they give it to you. you are applying. This letter does
adjectives appropriately. This letter You do not state very not state why you are interested
explains why you are interested in clearly why you are a in the position, company, and/or
the position and this type of job, good fit with the role, or location. It states that you are the
company, and/or location not just that overstates your skills and ideal candidate without any real
it is any old job. experience. This letter evidence.
does not really convince
the reader of your skills
and experience. You are
too vague.
Section 3: This letter shows the reader that you It is hard to tell if this was Oh dear… you got your cut and
About them know what they do, where they are actually written to this paste wrong. You are addressing
and why you or what makes them special, you may specific company, you say this letter to someone different
would like have spoken with someone working some nice things about than who you state below. Bad form
to work for there and clearly shows that you have them but it could have and no attention to detail.
them researched them thoroughly. been any company that
you are flattering.

Section 4: This letter uses positive and optimistic
Closing language that is genuine and ‘speaks’
to the reader in uncomplicated and
simple statements. You are assertive
as you describe how you fit with the
culture of the company, community or
organisation. It clearly demonstrates
that you know what they do and how
they do their work.
Original document courtesy of the National Association of Colleges and Employers, copyright holder. www.naceweb.org. Modified for NZ conditions.
You thank the reader for
taking time to read this
letter. This letter assumes
that the employer will
contact you to follow up.
This letter could have been written
to anyone and for any job. It looks
like a letter template that was found
on the internet and just about
copied word for word. It also gives
the reader too many instructions
or thanks them too many times for
reading or considering you. They do
not have to consider you even if you
thank them.
 22 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

EMAILING APPLICATIONS:
email Generally, when emailing attachments, you will need to include a short professional note in the body of the
email, telling the recipient why you are sending the email. While you don’t have to lay the email out as a formal
business letter, you do want it to look professional. Make sure you use professional written language – again
a demonstration of your ability to communicate in the workplace (so avoid text spelling, overuse of capitals,
exclamation marks, emoticons etc.). All the rules of good grammar and punctuation apply to email!
clearly name Write in whole sentences. E.g. ‘Please find attached my CV and cover letter for the position of ….’
how many It helps the reader process your application more efficiently if the attachment is named appropriately. You don’t
want your precious documents being lost or overlooked because they are unnamed and ‘got mislaid in the
system’! And again, check the name of your attached document(s) – ensure their title does not include the name
of another company you have applied to.
Sometimes the request is for one document. If in doubt, check. Always find out what is wanted and follow
instructions.
subject line The receiver can then see what the email is about before they open it. Remember people receive large quantities
of email. A clearly identified email is less likely to get lost in someone’s Inbox.
Use a salutation or greeting. When finishing off, ‘Yours faithfully, Yours sincerely, and ‘Kind regards’ are acceptable.
On another line, write your name. Consider the language most appropriate to yourself and the organisation you
are applying to - English or Te Reo is equally acceptable in these parts of your formal communication.

APPLICATION STATEMENTS
(Sometimes also referred to as personal statements).

formats with Where guidelines have been provided, for some positions a separate personal statement is requested. Some
guidelines organisations make it clear what they want from this exercise (Please tell us a little about you. Why do you want
this position? What strengths do you bring to the role? How does it fit in to your 5 year career plan? Use no
more than 350 words). Other organisations give no indication whatsoever. In the latter case, we recommend you
contact the organisation and ask them for guidelines.
Where you have not been provided with guidelines, it is a good idea to break the statement into the suggested
segments (e.g. ...tell us a little about you. Why do you want this position? What strengths do you bring to the
role? How does it fit in to your 5 year career plan?), to answer each fully, separately and concisely, and then
without
guidelines to merge the answers to fit the statement. This will take several drafts of each part of the answer. Beware
of over-emphasising or omitting any one part of the answer – this is a classic error in these statements and
tells the reviewer that either you didn’t realise that each part had to be answered equally or that your written
communication skills just aren’t up to the standard required. In either case your application is edging towards the
“No” pile.
Typically, organisations are interested in your motivation for the profession, organisation and position concerned.
They are also interested in what strengths you have that would enable you to adapt and excel in their work
environment. Often, they would like some sense of your personal values in the context of the position, and in how
you see your career developing over the short to medium term, say 2 - 5 years.
Use the organisation’s website, the relevant professional association (e.g. the Publishers Association of New
Zealand for those interested in publishing), CareersNZ and Occupational Outlook (MBIE) and other resources.
Talk to employers at one of the University of Otago’s Career Expos or other employer events, or use your personal
network or LinkedIn to meet people from the organisation – New Zealand only has 2 degrees of separation,
research
remember! From this research you can get a sense of what the organisation thinks is important in people, for
example it might place a strong emphasis on client satisfaction, personal integrity, or self-motivation. You can then
use this insight to write a statement that addresses their issues.
 CV INFORMATION 23

NOTES
24 CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

NOTES
Find graduate jobs on
OtagoCareerHub
otago.ac.nz/careers

Cumberland Street
The Link

Central University
Library Union
Albany Street

East Lane
Career
Development Career Development Centre
Centre
ISB Building (NE corner – next to the Library)
Tel 03 479 8244 | Email careers@otago.ac.nz